Navy sustains maritime security efforts amid holidays

Even as families across the country gathered to celebrate Christmas, personnel of the Joint Task Force Sinaya (JTF Sinaya) remained on constant watch, sustaining maritime security operations to ensure the safety and stability of Eastern Mindanao’s waters.

According to the Philippine Navy’s Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM), intensified patrols were conducted from 22 to 25 December to prevent threat elements from exploiting the holiday season for illegal maritime activities and other violations of maritime laws.

On 22 December, units under Task Force Seahawk deployed BA489 and BA491 of the 3rd Boat Attack Division, along with BRP Alberto Navarette (PC394), to conduct patrol operations within the internal waters of Davao Gulf, Davao Occidental, and Sarangani. These patrols ensured a visible naval presence in key maritime areas. 

At the same time, BRP Tagbanua (LC296) carried out littoral combat patrols along the southeastern and eastern seaboards of Eastern Mindanao, further strengthening maritime security coverage.

To enhance maritime domain awareness and operational reach, additional naval and aerial assets were employed during the Christmas period. 

From 24 to 25 December, TC-90 aircraft NV392 and BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS37) joined the patrol operations, boosting surveillance, coordination, and rapid response capabilities across the area of responsibility.

Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao emphasized that the sustained patrols were aimed at deterring illegal activities at sea and ensuring that peace and order in the region’s waters were maintained throughout the holidays.

The continued conduct of maritime security operations during Christmas highlights JTF Sinaya’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime interests. 

Through the coordinated use of surface and air assets, the task force ensured that coastal communities in Eastern Mindanao were able to celebrate the season with confidence in the safety and security of their surrounding waters.